Monte Neva Indian paintbrush facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Monte Neva Indian paintbrush |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Castilleja
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| Species: |
salsuginosa
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The Monte Neva Indian paintbrush (scientific name: Castilleja salsuginosa) is a special kind of flowering plant. It belongs to the Orobanchaceae plant family. This plant is found only in Nevada, United States. It grows in just two main spots in Nevada: one in White Pine County and another in Eureka County. These two places are about 134 kilometers (83 miles) apart, both within the Great Basin area. There are only about 275 of these plants left, which makes them very rare!
Contents
What Does It Look Like?
This unique plant can grow up to about 18 centimeters (7 inches) tall. It often has colors like brown, purplish, or gray.
Flowers and Bracts
In the months of June and July, the Monte Neva Indian paintbrush blooms. It produces groups of flowers called inflorescences. These flowers have cream and pink colored bracts. Bracts are like special leaves that often look like petals.
Similar Plants
The Monte Neva Indian paintbrush looks very much like another plant called Castilleja nana. Scientists are even studying if it might be a type of Castilleja nana.
Where Does It Grow?
This plant lives in two specific places in Nevada. It prefers alkaline meadows, which are grassy areas with salty soil.
Habitat Details
You can find the Monte Neva Indian paintbrush growing near hot springs. It likes the wet, salty soil found in these areas. The places where it grows are usually around 1,830 meters (6,000 feet) above sea level.
Plant Neighbors
Other plants that share this habitat include Sarcobatus vermiculatus, Chrysothamnus nauseosus, and Sporobolus airoides.
Why Is It Rare?
The Monte Neva Indian paintbrush is a very rare plant. It faces several challenges that make it hard for it to survive.
Main Threats
- Animals: Animals like livestock, horses, and pronghorn can eat or trample the plants.
- Vehicles: Off-road vehicles can damage the plant's habitat.
- Development: Building projects, especially those for geothermal energy, can destroy where the plant lives.
- Land Use: Changes in how land is used, like converting natural areas, can harm the plant.
- Water: Taking water away from the plant's habitat can make it too dry.
- Climate Change: Changes in the Earth's climate can also affect the plant's ability to grow and thrive.
